Volkswagen Golf Hatchback (13 on) - Review

Review by Simon McBride
on 10 Oct 2012

Last Updated: 02 Sep 2014

5

This is the seventh-generation Volkswagen Golf that follows the original Mk1 launched back in 1976. It doesn’t look a whole lot different from the current Golf but Volkswagen claims it is completely new.

Safety

Euro NCAP

All Golf models come with seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag, five three-point seatbelts, ABS with ESP, XDS electronic differential lock and Isofix preparation for two rear child seats.

Driver fatigue detection and lane assists are firsts for the Golf, and SE models and up are fitted with more safety kit as standard including City Emergency Braking. Volkswagen Golf safety levels are very strong. It was awarded five stars when tested by independent safety experts, Euro NCAP.

5 out of 5

Reliability

The previous generation was one of the most reliable cars in its class so expect Volkswagen Golf reliability to continue to impress. The majority of the engines have been proven in either the previous Golf or other models and so will doubtless prove reliable.